Lewis Hamilton in Ferrari: Fred Vasseur believes “Carlos Sainz understands the situation”. Frederic Vasseur on the reactions of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz to Lewis Hamilton's arrival at Ferrari.

Scuderia Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur explained the reactions of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz to Lewis Hamilton’s arrival at the Maranello team.

Lewis Hamilton’s Impact on the Ferrari team

For 2025, Ferrari has shown serious intent by putting all its cards on the table with the arrival of Lewis Hamilton. A market move that speaks volumes about the ambition of the Scuderia from Maranello and, at the same time, creates a problem that is not visible now but will arise in 12 months: who will lead between him and Charles Leclerc?

After living together for four years with Carlos Sainz (not exactly a second driver), Charles Leclerc has agreed to step up his game by sharing the box with Sir Lewis, while the British driver has done the same by leaving the Mercedes comfort zone and challenging #16 in his own territory. It is challenging to believe they will take a step back, and it is Frederic Vasseur’s task to direct the orchestra in a way that the two don’t step on each other’s toes.

Fred Vasseur’s comments

The Frenchman, after explaining how Lewis Hamilton can be a reference point, expressed the reactions of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz to #44’s arrival next season: “Carlos understands the situation, and I am sure he will perform strongly until the last corner of the season. Charles is a smart guy. He immediately understood what he can achieve and learn from this collaboration. He sees it more as an opportunity,” these were his words to Sky Sport.

Carlos Sainz focused also on the 2025 Formula 1 championship

One who must think about the present but, above all, the future is Carlos Sainz. The Spaniard would have preferred to have a much clearer situation at the start of the championship, and instead, he will begin testing without a signed contract. He certainly doesn’t need to showcase himself and still has many weeks to plan the next move. Carlos Sainz knows he is one of the most sought-after pieces in the market: Mercedes and Sauber are on his trail, but also Aston Martin if Fernando Alonso were to leave.